NEW DELHI: India pacer Mohammed Shami has once again been overlooked for the national squad, this time for India’s upcoming tour of Australia starting October 19. The 35-year-old, who last played in the 2025 Champions Trophy, has been struggling with fitness issues, though he has remained active in the IPL and domestic cricket for Bengal.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel .
Breaking his silence on the non-selection, Shami addressed the rumors and speculation on his YouTube channel.
“People want to know my opinion on the non-selection for the Australia series. I will just say that getting selected is not in my hands; it's the job of the selection committee, coach, and captain. If they feel I should be there, they will select me, or if they feel some more time is needed, it's in their hands. I am ready and practicing,” he said.
Shami also assured fans that his fitness is in top shape, adding: “My fitness is also good. I will try to do better because when you are away from the ground, you need to remain motivated. I played in the Duleep Trophy . I felt very comfortable, my rhythm was good, and I bowled around 35 overs. There are no issues with my fitness.”
Despite Shami’s confidence, former India batter Aakash Chopra questioned his chances of returning to the national team, citing his lack of recent match practice.
“I feel it won’t be good because if his name has not come now, the chances of his name coming in India are very less in any case… He is playing domestic cricket and he has asked people why they are after him if he wants to play, and that is absolutely fine,” Chopra said.
Chopra acknowledged Shami’s talent but noted the veteran pacer has fallen behind in the race for India’s fast-bowling spots.
“His name can come, but the chances have become very less, unless there is an incredible IPL,” he added.
For now, Shami’s international future remains uncertain. His best path back appears to be strong performances in domestic cricket and the upcoming IPL 2026, which could provide the selectors with the confidence to recall him to the Indian team .
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel .
Breaking his silence on the non-selection, Shami addressed the rumors and speculation on his YouTube channel.
“People want to know my opinion on the non-selection for the Australia series. I will just say that getting selected is not in my hands; it's the job of the selection committee, coach, and captain. If they feel I should be there, they will select me, or if they feel some more time is needed, it's in their hands. I am ready and practicing,” he said.
Shami also assured fans that his fitness is in top shape, adding: “My fitness is also good. I will try to do better because when you are away from the ground, you need to remain motivated. I played in the Duleep Trophy . I felt very comfortable, my rhythm was good, and I bowled around 35 overs. There are no issues with my fitness.”
Despite Shami’s confidence, former India batter Aakash Chopra questioned his chances of returning to the national team, citing his lack of recent match practice.
“I feel it won’t be good because if his name has not come now, the chances of his name coming in India are very less in any case… He is playing domestic cricket and he has asked people why they are after him if he wants to play, and that is absolutely fine,” Chopra said.
Chopra acknowledged Shami’s talent but noted the veteran pacer has fallen behind in the race for India’s fast-bowling spots.
“His name can come, but the chances have become very less, unless there is an incredible IPL,” he added.
For now, Shami’s international future remains uncertain. His best path back appears to be strong performances in domestic cricket and the upcoming IPL 2026, which could provide the selectors with the confidence to recall him to the Indian team .
You may also like
Body of missing soldier found in snowbound Kashmir forest, search on for 2nd
Candace Owens row: Screenshot war begins as Josh Hammer 'reluctantly' drops his last message with Charlie Kirk
EastEnders Joel's 'exit sealed' as harrowing attack on Vicki leaves viewers 'sickened'
FICCI FRAMES Day 2: Cricketainment, AI & Theatre Take Centre Stage
India leads South Asia's AI transformation
